The African Union (AU) has appointed Hon. Sam Kutesa, Uganda’s former Minister of Foreign Affairs and former President of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to its newly created High-Level Panel of Eminent Experts on Governance, Peace, and Security. The decision by AU Chairperson H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf places Kutesa at the heart of shaping continental reforms that will define Africa’s governance and security architecture in the years ahead.
This appointment is not merely a recognition of Kutesa’s long diplomatic career but also a signal of the AU’s intent to leverage seasoned statesmanship as it seeks lasting solutions to persistent governance and security challenges across Africa. The Panel is expected to review the AU’s Governance, Peace, and Security Framework and propose reforms that can strengthen democracy, enhance stability, and deepen conflict resolution mechanisms.
Why Kutesa’s Experience Matters
Kutesa brings nearly two decades of high-level diplomatic leadership, both within Uganda and on the global stage. As Uganda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2005 to 2021, he oversaw major regional peace initiatives, conflict mediation, and partnerships that enhanced Uganda’s role as a stabilizing force in the Great Lakes region and beyond.
His presidency of the 69th UN General Assembly further elevated his global profile, giving him a platform to engage with world leaders on pressing international issues such as security, sustainable development, and multilateral cooperation. These credentials now align directly with the AU’s ambition to refine its governance and security mechanisms in a period marked by political transitions, internal conflicts, and growing security threats.
Implications for the African Union
The establishment of this High-Level Panel underscores the AU’s recognition that governance and peace are interlinked foundations of Africa’s future. The Panel’s recommendations are expected to shape new strategies that address the structural causes of conflict while promoting inclusive governance. Specifically, the work of the Panel could:
- Reinforce Africa’s capacity to prevent and resolve conflicts before they escalate
- Strengthen democratic institutions and accountability systems across member states
- Enhance Africa’s collective ability to respond to cross-border security threats
- Foster a culture of sustainable peace anchored in governance reforms
Kutesa’s inclusion signals that the AU values tested leadership with both continental and international credibility to drive these reforms.
What This Means for Africa’s Future
Africa’s long-term stability and growth depend on governance frameworks that can withstand political transitions and on peace mechanisms that resolve disputes without prolonged instability. The AU’s decision to appoint leaders like Kutesa suggests a renewed commitment to tackling these challenges with fresh energy and practical experience.
For Uganda, this is also a reaffirmation of the country’s enduring influence in shaping continental diplomacy. Kutesa’s role offers an opportunity to showcase Uganda’s contribution to Africa’s integration and transformation agenda, reinforcing the nation’s reputation as a key player in peace and governance.
As Africa navigates an era of complex governance and security challenges, the High-Level Panel represents a bold step toward a more stable and democratic future. With Sam Kutesa among its leading voices, the AU is signaling that Africa’s future will be shaped not only by political will but by the wisdom of leaders who have navigated the complexities of global diplomacy.
